In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Dr. Marc McKinley, a nephrologist (kidney doctor)serving Panama City and Panama City Beach, Florida. Dr. McKinley shares his journey from private practice in Cleveland, Ohio to the Florida Panhandle—and why moving here in late 2020 became one of the best decisions for his family and career.

We cover practical, real-world kidney health topics including:

• What a nephrologist treats: kidney disease, high blood pressure, dialysis, electrolytes, and chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Why kidney disease often has few symptoms until it’s advanced
• What to look for in your labs: creatinine, BUN, urinalysis, protein/blood in urine
• Dialysis explained: in-center hemodialysis vs. at-home options, including peritoneal dialysis
• IV hydration bars, “banana bags,” and what people with kidney disease should be cautious about
• Caring for veterans and the real-world friction of referrals and approvals
• The challenge of doctor recruitment in the Panhandle—and how new medical facilities could change access to care

This is an approachable conversation for anyone who wants to be smarter about kidney health, prevention, and navigating healthcare in the Florida Panhandle.

Guest: Dr. Marc McKinley, Nephrology (Panama City / Panama City Beach)

Show: Panhandle Pulse

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In this episode of Pan Handle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Stephanie Sylvestre, co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Avatar Buddy, for a deep and honest conversation about the human side of artificial intelligence.

Stephanie shares her unexpected journey into tech—from economics and government work to building AI-powered digital mentors—and explains how Avatar Buddy creates “spiritual” digital twins that capture personality, values, and lived experience rather than just physical appearance. Together, they explore how AI can amplify human potential, improve confidence and self-esteem, streamline work, and even help people stay emotionally balanced in an increasingly complex world.

The conversation also dives into real-world applications of AI in business, the future of digital identity and security, startup resilience, and why trusting your instincts matters when building something new. This episode challenges the idea that AI replaces people—and instead shows how it can help us become more present, mindful, and connected.

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Chief Meteorologist Chris Smith, founder of PanhandleWeather.com, joins Panhandle Pulse to discuss the future of weather forecasting in Northwest Florida. Chris shares his journey from local TV news to launching an independent, digital-first weather platform focused on accurate, local forecasts without the noise.

The episode explores entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and why building a community-focused weather channel allows Chris to be more present with his family while serving the people who rely on timely, trustworthy forecasts. Chuck and Chris discuss the role of AI in future forecasting, the challenges of growing a local media startup, and the importance of industry and job growth in the Florida Panhandle.

Whether you live in Northwest Florida, plan to vacation along the Gulf Coast, or are interested in digital media and weather technology, this episode offers valuable insight into how local forecasting is evolving—and why weather remains the most important information people depend on every day.

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